GEORGE TOWN – A temple monk in Air Itam has become a millionaire after winning RM1 million in cash through Bank Simpanan Nasional’s (BSN) Premium Savings Certificate (SSP) Jutawan programme.
According to Chan Chai Siang, the achievement came from savings largely made up of donations and 'angpau' he received.
The 73-year-old from Butterworth is the 124th grand prize winner of the programme and the second winner from Penang, after a history teacher who won the April draw.
The senior citizen comes from a family of eight siblings, but only three are still alive.
The former factory worker, who also worked in Singapore and Penang as a supervisor, said he started saving in BSN SSP in January 2025 after being recommended by a friend.
“I started saving after a friend suggested it. I didn’t save it to win prizes, but to keep my money safe.
“The money I saved mostly came from donations, ‘angpau’ and contributions from the public. I also used part of it to help those in need,” he said.
Chan was met after receiving a replica cheque at BSN Penang’s main branch on Jalan Macalister, presented by BSN Penang director Mohd Hairul Izam Abu Bakar and BSN Strategic Communications Department head Aizurra Mellissa Muzammil.
He added that he never set a fixed savings amount, as it depended on the money he received, but he usually saved around RM1,000 to RM2,000 at a time.
Chan also said that at first, he did not believe the news of his win when he received a phone call from BSN.
“I received three calls, but only answered one because I thought it was a scammer.
“When I was told I had won RM1 million, I really didn’t believe it and thought it was impossible,” he said.
His confidence only came after BSN representatives visited him to confirm the win.
“I was very shocked. I never expected to win because my intention was only to save,” he added.
On what he plans to do with the winnings, Chan said he has no specific plans yet and intends to keep the money in the bank for the time being.
“I will keep it first and use it when necessary. If someone needs help, I will help as usual, but the money must be used wisely,” he said.